types of biography in research

Biographical Research: Getting Started

• Getting Started
• Reference Shelf
• Finding Books
• Finding Articles
• National, Political
• Literature, Science, Business, Social Science
• Religion, Race, Ethnicity, Gender
• Sports, Entertainment & Arts
• Time Period & Obituaries
• Primary Sources
• Internet Resources
• Citation & Writing Manuals
• Genealogy Books
• Genealogy Research Guide This link opens in a new window

Introduction

Before you start your research, check the correct spelling of the person’s name.

While you research, keep in mind that all sources can contain bias; the best biographical information will be signed by an author and will provide bibliographic citations for source material.

Questions to ask before you start your search:

• How much information do you want to find about the person?
• What is the person's profession or notoriety?
• How well known is the person?
• Is the person's nationality, ethnic background, gender, or affiliation significant
• Is the person living or deceased? 
• What dates are significant for this person?
• Do you want autobiography, memoir, or interviews in addition to biographical sources?
• What do you already know about the person?

What kind of source should I use?

Can you use popular biographical sources available via the free web?

• Consider your assignment. If you are unsure, ask your professor.
• Check the credentials of the author or creator of the content to determine their expertise and authority.
• Check to see if the information sources you select include cited references.
• Consider if your source is Primary, Secondary, or Tertiary.
• Evaluating Websites Use this handout to evaluate content from a website.

Subject Guide

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• Last Updated: Oct 16, 2024 1:53 PM
• URL: https://fordham.libguides.com/Biography